Trump and Putin to Hold Budapest Summit to Discuss Ukraine Conflict

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Hungary, following a constructive phone conversation regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump described the call as “extremely productive,” highlighting the shared interest in exploring avenues for de-escalation and conflict resolution.

This forthcoming summit marks another attempt at high-level diplomacy amid the protracted Ukraine conflict. Officials from both nations are expected to convene prior to the summit to coordinate key discussion points. Sources indicate that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will hold preparatory meetings to ensure a comprehensive agenda.

In parallel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet Trump at the White House. Among the topics under discussion is the potential supply of advanced military equipment, including long-range missiles, to support Ukraine’s defense efforts. The Kremlin has raised concerns that such assistance could escalate tensions further.

The Budapest summit represents a rare opportunity for direct dialogue between the two leaders, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations. Both sides have expressed optimism about the talks, emphasizing the importance of constructive engagement to seek a path toward peace.